Sending Host Invites: Do You Have Any Tips?

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Discussion Overview

The thread explores various methods and experiences related to sending host invitations for Pampered Chef shows. Participants share their approaches to mailing invites, the use of labels, and how they manage postage costs.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, considers mailing out host invites and seeks pointers on using labels and rewarding hosts for contacts.
  • Another participant shares their experience of using a personal form for invites when hosts have email access, noting improved show attendance.
  • Several users mention using mini catalogs as invitations, highlighting that this method generates excitement and increases outside orders.
  • One participant prefers handwritten invitations over labels for a personal touch, while also using labels for show information.
  • Another participant discusses using Home Office labels and requiring hosts to cover postage costs, offering free postage for a certain number of names.
  • Some participants express that they pay for postage themselves, believing it facilitates easier hosting and reduces cancellations.
  • One participant notes that paying for postage has led to an increase in show attendance and overall sales.
  • Another participant inquires about the average postage costs when sending invites.
  • Several users discuss the logistics of including invites in mini catalogs and how they format the information for clarity.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on whether to use labels or handwritten invitations, and there is no clear consensus on who should cover postage costs, with some participants opting to pay for it while others ask hosts to contribute.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and practices related to sending invitations, reflecting a variety of strategies and preferences within the consultant community.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for Pampered Chef consultants looking for different methods to manage host invitations and improve show attendance.

K
KimberleePowell
Messages
212
I am starting to consider mailing out the host's invites for her/him. I was wondering if anyone had any pointers? Do you use the labels that Pampered Chef supplies or do you have your own form. Do you reward your host for a certain number of contacts names? Any information would be greatly appreciated.:)
 
I have attached the form I use if my hostess has access to E-Mail. If she does not, I give her the one from Home office. I have just started doing this, because that way I know how many invites are sent out, etc. I have had too many shows lately with only 5-6 guests, and I am determined to change that.
 

Attachments

I started using the mini catalogs as my invitations. I then type up a note with all the party info, and info on ordering online if they can't come, and tape inside the front page. I have the host fill out the guest address labels from HO, and I also make a label that says "you're invited to a cooking show...see inside for details"--I put that on the outside front of the mini.
I have found that using the mini catalogs gets people excited, especially if they haven't seen the catalog for awhile. It's helped with outside orders; because people see something in picture they want in the book.
 
I don't use labels for the guests names & addresses....I just think it's a more personal invitation if it is hand written. I do make up labels w/ the show info on them though....and also put my own little website label over the PC.com line at the bottom of the invite....and also use the Nancy sticker - "bring a friend or outside order and get a gift". I tried the labels from PC - they are horrible (IMO) not enough room for host to write info, and sorta cheesy looking - I used then twice, and threw the rest away!
 
I use the HO labels and I ask for a check for postage from the host. If she provides 40 or more names, the postage is free.

I also provide an SASE for her to send the labels back to me.
 
lacychef said:
I started using the mini catalogs as my invitations. I then type up a note with all the party info, and info on ordering online if they can't come, and tape inside the front page. I have the host fill out the guest address labels from HO, and I also make a label that says "you're invited to a cooking show...see inside for details"--I put that on the outside front of the mini.
I have found that using the mini catalogs gets people excited, especially if they haven't seen the catalog for awhile. It's helped with outside orders; because people see something in picture they want in the book.
Click to expand...

Lacy
Will you post what you put on the mini catalogs? I think this is a great idea!
 
DebbieJ said:
I use the HO labels and I ask for a check for postage from the host. If she provides 40 or more names, the postage is free.

I also provide an SASE for her to send the labels back to me.
Click to expand...
I would think that hosts might have a problem with giving you a check for postage. Do you experience that?
 
I pay for the postage...it makes having a show easier.
 
tashayoung said:
I pay for the postage...it makes having a show easier.
Click to expand...
That is what I do too.
 
I pay the postage also....I heard the Lemonaid Lady talk about this early in my PC career and it just clicked with me....I had been having soooo many last minute cancellations of shows, and I suspected it was because hosts weren't mailing out invites, or mailing them late, or only mailing a few....
Well, she talked about how I really shouldn't expect hosts to mail out invites - that it was my business, so that was just part of doing business, and that to ask for the postage was like only going half way. I know a lot of consultants ask for the price of postage - and if that works for them - than that's great! But for my business, it just makes sense for me to pay the postage and write it off. (And my cancellation problem vanished into thin air!)
 
I started mailing the invites in October. I love it! I know how many guests are invited and when the invites were mailed - my show average and attendance has gone up considerably and I've had a $1000 show each month......prior to doing this I had only had one $1000 show in a year. To me, the added postage and little bit of work on my part has increased my commission way more than the cost of the stamps, plus it's a business expense. I highly reccommend you at least trying it.
 
I have asked this question beforebut havent gotten an answer. When you pay for postage what is the average abount you spend on it roughly? TIA
 
smarteez2 said:
but havent gotten an answer. When you pay for postage what is the average abount you spend on it roughly? TIA
Click to expand...
Depends on how many invites I send out. Postage stamps cost 24 cents each. I buy them in rolls of 100 for $24. My hosts give me anywhere from 20 to 45 names. Average is probably @ 35 names so 35X24=$8.40

I also encourage my hosts to use my PWS and send evites. I have the host do that part, I only send the postcards to those who either do not check their email on a regular basis or who do not have email.
 
I mail their invites hand written in my hand writing.... and I pay for the postage... then again I pay for the food to, the only thing they need to do is host a show and invite 40 people if they know that many people.
 
Thank you so much!!
pamperedlinda said:
Depends on how many invites I send out. Postage stamps cost 24 cents each. I buy them in rolls of 100 for $24. My hosts give me anywhere from 20 to 45 names. Average is probably @ 35 names so 35X24=$8.40

I also encourage my hosts to use my PWS and send evites. I have the host do that part, I only send the postcards to those who either do not check their email on a regular basis or who do not have email.
Click to expand...


For your answer I really appreciate it!!:o)
 
Here ya go Tasha! I hope it attaches okay......this is what I put inside my mini catalogs. I type it so it fits inside, & there's 4 to a page.
 

Attachments

I don't know.....it didn't open for me....
Here's what I type...

You're invited to a Pampered Chef Cooking Show!!
Host: XXX
Date: XXX
Time: XXX
Place: XXX
Phone: XXX

Please RSVP so we can plan the menu accordingly!
If you can't come, but would like to order, you
can contact (host name), or you may to to
www.yourwebsite.biz, and enter the host's name
when asked, and your order will be added to the show!

Hope to see you there!

(that's my generic one....this month I"m also adding 'come see the new products')
I also type it so it fits 4 to a page; it's the perfect size to fit inside the mini's.
 
Lacy, I like this idea! :) I may borrow it when I run out of postcards! :)
 
Thanks Lacy! I couldn't get it to open either - and I think I'd like to try this idea!
 
I offer to send invites for my hosts and since I do the shopping for them, I just give them the amount when I get to the show. After all, they get $15 from PC to pay for these things. However, if their show is over $500, I typically pay for it. This way, I avoid spending more on gas, postage & food then I make on a $150 show!! I haven't had any hosts complain about that. They are usually very happy not to have to do this stuff themselves. I actually print the info right on the invites (instead of labels). I also add my website (really a VERY bold .biz/"mysite") to cover up the .com. I also will print any special for the show and such there too, including "bring a guest, get a gift" and I can highlight it so they at least read that. May not have room on the new invites though.
 
This is the invite I've been putting in the mini-catalogs I send out.

Trish in Texas
Future Director & Recruiter
 

Attachments

So do you just set them inside or tape them?
 
Oh I would tape them, what if they fall out.
Then they can say, "Oh, I never saw the invite"
 
You're welcome girls:) Yes, I tape mine inside the first page, then you have to tape the catty closed, or you will get a call from your friendly post office to come down & tape them shut (yes, talking from experience here!). I also stamp my info in the return address place, so the guests have it.
 
Sending Invites!I stopped giving host packets out at my show, I still do the three pile system, but instead of packets I give out a stamped envelope with a 40 name flyer. As soon as I get there guest list back I get the packet to them and go over it with them (host coaching). This way I know they are serious about there shows and I also by the groceries for them and just give them a receit for all when we close the show. I offer them $5.00 in PC money if they return there guest list within a week. This has worked out great for me, I was getting in maybe three shows a month. Now this past month I closed out 7 shows all about 400.00!!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to personalize host invites for my Pampered Chef party?

Personalizing host invites can significantly increase engagement. Start by addressing your guests by name and including a personal message that reflects your relationship with them. Mention specific products you think they might love or share a fun memory related to cooking or entertaining. This makes the invite feel more special and tailored to them.

How far in advance should I send out host invites?

It's best to send out host invites at least 2-3 weeks before the party date. This gives your guests enough time to check their schedules and respond. If you're planning a larger event or if many guests are coming from out of town, consider sending invites even earlier, around 4 weeks in advance.

What platforms are effective for sending host invites?

You can use various platforms to send host invites, including social media, email, and text messaging. Facebook events are a popular choice, as they allow for easy RSVP tracking. Email is great for a more formal approach, while text messages can be effective for quick reminders. Choose the platform that best fits your audience's preferences.

Should I include a theme in my host invites?

Yes, including a theme in your host invites can make the event more appealing and fun. Whether it’s a holiday theme, a cooking style, or a specific cuisine, a theme can help set the tone and excite your guests. Be sure to mention the theme in your invite and suggest how they can participate, such as dressing up or bringing a dish related to the theme.

How can I encourage RSVPs from my guests?

To encourage RSVPs, make it easy for guests to respond by providing clear instructions on how to RSVP. You can also create a sense of urgency by mentioning limited seating or special offers for those who attend. Follow up with a friendly reminder a week before the event to prompt those who haven’t responded yet.

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